*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*
If this is your first time working with a CPA, don’t worry — most professionals offer a free consultation and will walk you through what to expect. You may be asked to complete an intake form, share financial documents, or set clear goals for your session.
*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*
*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*
*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*
*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*
1850 Mt Diablo Blvd #335
Walnut Creek, California 94596
Burton Enright Welch has been my financial advisory firm for 30 years. To a person, they operate with the upmost, courtesy, integrity and professionalism. They are well-versed in their field. Jeremy Welch manages my money as carefully as if it were his own. He is on top of new information and explains his approach well. He has been a proactive retirement planner with me, and his advice has been invaluable. I would highly recommend Jeremy and his team to anyone who wants a savvy, yet personal approach to the
Our Financial Advisor, Ben Peters, is an excellent advisor. He?s articulate and extremely versed on our investment objective in retirement. I worked in the investment industry and my husband and I have been extremely pleased with the service we have received since our account was acquired by Burton, Enright and Welch about 13 years ago. We meet annually to reevaluate our investment objectives. Ben is genuinely interested in our lives. Every person that I have come into contact with is friendly and performs
BEW has been our financial advisors, planners and managers for almost 10 years. They have provided valuable guidance in our later working years to develop and maintain a solid retirement portfolio. All members of the BEW team demonstrate a caring and personable relationship with us. We feel like we are more than just another client. Their services and advice have been extended to our children. Jeremy, Chris, Teresa and Sydney have been our key contacts. Their commitment to service make us believe that
They are absolutely the best! We cannot say enough good things about the folks at Burton Enright Welch. They are extremely professional, intelligent, and best of all, family friendly. We were not sure if we initially needed a financial advisor, but now that we have used them, we do not know what we would do without them. They are seriously good people and you will trust them completely with your finances. In short they have been wonderful.
Over a decade ago, we selected BEW to handle my MIL's portfolio after she sold her home, and were extremely satisfied with their professional expertise, prompt service, and courteous well-trained staff. Upon our retirement, we transferred our own account to BEW. They have handled our portfolio in a tax-advantaged manner and given us timely advice as well. We could not be more pleased with the results of their financial management of our assets. We look forward to many more years of working with them, espe
BEW has been amazing in not only managing our portfolio for the past 2+ years after my wife and I retired, but in being such great people in general. Our advisor Kelly has been fantastic and she has been super knowledgeable and helpful in all things financial for us. We always have felt we were the most important person in the room (zoom) when talking with her. And I have had the recent pleasure of talking with another advisor, Chris, who was equally fantastic and knowledgeable. What a treat to have someon
We had been clients of a firm for over 30-years. It had attracted our business because it shared our investment philosophy, and its commitment to transparency and communication. It had provided advice and guidance through our later working years and into retirement. When its principles retired, we were pleasantly surprised by the easy transition as our relationship was acquired by Burton Enright & Welch. BEW shared the same philosophies and similar practices which put us at ease. In 2020?s we began reas
BEW has far exceeded my expectations. My portfolio is conservative and has more than doubled in value. They set realistic expectations and outcomes that are tailored to my needs. They prepare for and remain disciplined through market swings. They are responsive and thoughtful. Their professionalism, support and guidance have been invaluable to me.
We cannot express enough gratitude for the incredible impact Jeremy and his team at BEW have had on our lives. They have truly transformed our financial outlook and future. From the moment we started working with them, it was evident that we were partnering with a team who genuinely cares about our well-being and financial success. Jeremy and his team took the time to understand our unique goals and challenges, crafting a personalized strategy that has set us up for financial freedom. Their expertise, dedi
The company has exceptional financial expertise and steadfast fiduciary ethics. The cornerstone of the organization is outstanding financial expertise, prudent investments, and strategic market savvy. Woven in the organizational fabric is dedicated customer service - by all employees. BEW is a first rate organization, and I am very pleased to be a client!
To say that Jeremy Welch and the BEW financial advisors team changed the trajectory of my family?s lives and helped us find peace of mind and happiness is to put it mildly. We started with BEW 11 years ago and since then we?ve been thrilled with the performance of our financial portfolio. Jeremy and his team listen to our unique circumstances and personal goals and give us excellent financial advice every step of the way as our family and financial situation evolve. When it comes to finances, the only thing
Look for a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, which ensures they’ve passed rigorous exams and meet state requirements. Check for relevant experience in your industry, additional certifications like CFA or CMA, and membership in professional organizations like the AICPA. Verify their credentials through state licensing boards.
Use online directories like the AICPA, CPAverify, or state CPA societies. Search platforms like Yelp or Google for local CPAs with reviews. Ask for referrals from business associates, friends, or financial advisors. Local chambers of commerce can also provide recommendations.
A CPA is a licensed professional who has passed the CPA exam and met state requirements for education and experience. An accountant may lack this certification and could have varying levels of expertise. For complex tasks like tax audits or financial reporting, a CPA is typically more qualified.
Ask about their experience with your specific financial needs, such as tax preparation, small business accounting, or estate planning. Review their website or LinkedIn for case studies or client testimonials. Inquire about their client base to ensure they handle similar financial situations.
Yes, reviews provide insight into a CPA’s reliability, communication, and performance. Check platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau for client feedback. Look for patterns in reviews, but verify their authenticity, as some may be biased or outdated.
Visit your state’s Board of Accountancy website or use CPAverify.org to check a CPA’s license status. Confirm their license is active and check for any disciplinary actions or complaints. This ensures they’re in good standing and meet professional standards.
Ask about their experience with your financial needs, fee structure, availability, and communication style. Inquire how they handle tax filings, audits, or financial planning. Ask for references or examples of similar work to assess their expertise and fit.
Fees vary based on location, services, and complexity. Basic tax preparation may cost $150-$500, while business accounting or audits can range from $1,000 to $10,000+. Request a detailed fee structure upfront and compare quotes from multiple CPAs.
Yes, many CPAs offer remote services through secure online platforms for document sharing and virtual consultations. Ensure they use encrypted tools for data security. Remote CPAs can be effective if they understand your local tax laws or business regulations.
During consultations, evaluate their ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly. Ask sample questions about taxes or financial strategies and note their responsiveness and clarity. Good communication ensures you understand their advice and fosters a productive relationship.
Beware of CPAs who guarantee specific tax refunds, lack a valid license, or have disciplinary actions on record. Avoid those with poor communication, vague fee structures, or negative reviews highlighting unethical behavior. Always verify their credentials independently.
Large firms offer more resources and specialized teams but may charge higher fees. Solo practitioners often provide personalized service and lower costs but may have limited availability. Choose based on your needs, budget, and preference for personalized attention.
For individuals, annual meetings for tax preparation may suffice. Businesses may need quarterly or monthly check-ins for bookkeeping, tax planning, or financial reporting. Discuss your needs upfront to establish a meeting schedule that aligns with your financial goals.
Yes, many CPAs handle both, but confirm their expertise in both areas. Ask about their experience managing personal taxes and business accounting simultaneously. Ensure they can balance both without compromising attention to your specific financial needs.
Discuss concerns directly with your CPA to resolve issues. If unresolved, check your contract for termination terms. Seek a new CPA by researching reviews, credentials, and referrals. Request your financial records to ensure a smooth transition to a new professional.